Dukku, a historic town located in Gombe State, northeastern Nigeria, traces its origins back to the 17th century. It was founded by Arɗo Sammbo, a Fulani clan leader who migrated with his people and livestock from Fuuta Jallon in present-day Guinea. Their journey in search of fertile grazing land brought them through various regions, including a temporary settlement at Kamanei, which they abandoned due to cultural conflicts.

After several months of nomadic movement, Arɗo Sammbo and his followers settled briefly at Lumpaaso, near the banks of the Gongola River, under the hospitality of Moi Duja, a Bolewa Chief of Kalam. However, due to environmental challenges, they moved again—this time to a more suitable location guided by Chief Duja’s emissary. This final settlement became what is today known as Dukku.

The name “Dukku” is derived from the Fulfulde command word for tethering cattle and a Bolewa expression of approval, originally combined as Dukku ƴori before being shortened. The town grew over the centuries into a center of Fulani culture, leadership, and Islamic tradition.

In 2001, the Dukku Emirate was formally carved out of the Gombe Emirate by the then Governor, Alhaji Abubakar Habu Hashidu, establishing Dukku as a distinct traditional institution. Since then, the Emirate has played a vital role in preserving heritage, promoting unity, and fostering development across the region.